Prolific fantasy and science-fiction author Gene Wolfe writes challenging and imaginative stories that reward attentive readers with their depth and insight. His critically acclaimed and unconventional work constructs sophisticated worlds through subtle dialogue, obscure references, literary and historical allusions, and first-person accounts from unreliable narrators. Readers of Wolfe's clear, vivid, and eloquent prose might want to keep a dictionary handy, and his intricate, densely layered plots require careful reading, especially since characters frequently reveal vital information in an off-hand way. But those willing to read actively will find his work fascinating and unique. Start with: The shadow of the torturer

Prolific fantasy and science-fiction author Gene Wolfe writes challenging and imaginative stories that reward attentive readers with their depth and insight. His critically acclaimed and unconventional work constructs sophisticated worlds through subtle dialogue, obscure references, literary and historical allusions, and first-person accounts from unreliable narrators. Readers of Wolfe's clear, vivid, and eloquent prose might want to keep a dictionary handy, and his intricate, densely layered plots require careful reading, especially since characters frequently reveal vital information in an off-hand way. But those willing to read actively will find his work fascinating and unique. Start with: The shadow of the torturer